What an International Driving Permit Actually Is

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not a separate license. It is a translation document that sits alongside your regular driver's license and tells police and rental companies in other countries what your home license says. It does not replace your state license — you must carry both together, and your state license is what actually proves you can drive.

The IDP exists because not every country can read English or your state's license format. When you hand a police officer in France or Japan your IDP plus your U.S. license, they can see your license class, restrictions, and expiration date in their own language. Without it, a rental car company abroad may refuse to rent to you, or a traffic stop could become complicated.

The U.S. does not issue IDPs directly. Instead, the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are the only two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue them. You explore through one of these groups, not through your state's DMV.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is a translation of your existing U.S. driver's license and must be carried with it at all times when driving abroad.
  • Only AAA and AATA are authorized to issue IDPs in the United States, and you cannot get one from your state DMV or online.
  • You need a valid U.S. driver's license, a passport-style photo, and a completed process form to request an IDP in person.
  • An IDP costs between $15 and $20 and is valid for one year from the date of issue, or until your U.S. license expires, whichever comes first.
  • Some countries recognize IDPs for longer than one year, but you should check your destination country's rules before traveling.

Who Can Get an International Driving Permit

You must hold a valid U.S. driver's license to get an IDP. The license can be from any state, and it does not matter whether it is a standard license, a commercial license, or a license with restrictions. Your IDP will reflect whatever your U.S. license shows.

You must be at least 18 years old. Some countries have their own age rules for driving — they may not recognize an IDP held by someone under 21, for example — but the U.S. requirement is 18.

Your U.S. license must not be suspended, revoked, or expired. If your license is currently suspended or revoked, you cannot get an IDP until your driving privilege is restored. If your license has expired, you must renew it first.

What You Need to Bring to AAA or AATA

Bring your valid U.S. driver's license and a valid passport or passport card. The passport proves your identity and citizenship. A state ID card is not enough — it must be a passport.

You will need one passport-style photograph, 2 inches by 2 inches. This is the same size photo used for passports and visas. You can get one taken at AAA or AATA offices, at many pharmacies, or at passport acceptance facilities, though getting it done elsewhere and bringing it with you is usually faster.

You will fill out an process form at the AAA or AATA office. The form is short — it asks for your name, address, license number, and the countries you plan to visit. You do not need to fill it out ahead of time; staff will help you complete it there.

Bring cash or a debit card. AAA and AATA accept both. The fee is typically $15 to $20, depending on the office and whether you are an AAA member (members sometimes pay less).

How to Find an AAA or AATA Office Near You

AAA has over 1,000 offices across the United States. To find the one nearest you, go to AAA.com, click "Locations," and enter your zip code. You can also call 1-800-AAA-HELP (1-800-222-4357) to find an office or ask about hours.

AATA has fewer locations than AAA but covers all 50 states. Visit AATA.org and use their office locator, or call 1-800-622-7070 to find the nearest office and confirm they have IDP applications in stock.

Not all AAA or AATA offices issue IDPs on the same day. Some locations issue them while you wait (usually within 15 to 30 minutes), while others may ask you to return in a few days. When you call or visit, ask whether your office issues IDPs same-day or if you need to schedule an appointment.

How Long an International Driving Permit Lasts

An IDP issued in the United States is valid for one year from the date it is issued. If your U.S. driver's license expires before that year is up, your IDP becomes invalid when your license expires — you cannot use an IDP with an expired U.S. license, even if the IDP itself has not reached its one-year mark.

Some countries recognize U.S. IDPs for longer than one year — up to three years in some cases. Before you travel, check the rules for your destination country. Your rental car company or the country's tourism website can tell you how long they recognize an IDP. If your destination only recognizes it for one year but your IDP is older, you may need to get a new one before you go.

If your U.S. license is renewed or replaced while you hold an IDP, your old IDP is no longer valid. You will need to get a new IDP that matches your new license number.

What to Do If You Cannot Visit an Office in Person

AAA and AATA require you to explore in person — there is no mail-in or online option for U.S. citizens. You must show your passport and driver's license to staff, and they must verify your identity before issuing the permit.

If you live far from an office or have mobility issues, call ahead to ask whether the office can accommodate you or whether a nearby location might be more convenient. Some offices have extended hours or can schedule appointments at specific times to reduce wait times.

If you are traveling abroad and realize you forgot your IDP, you cannot get one while you are outside the United States. Plan ahead and get your IDP before you leave.

Using Your International Driving Permit Abroad

Always carry your IDP together with your U.S. driver's license. Neither document is valid on its own outside the United States. Police, rental companies, and border officials expect to see both.

When you rent a car, show both documents to the rental company. Some companies may ask to keep a copy of your IDP on file, but they should not take the original — you need it if you are stopped while driving.

An IDP does not change the driving laws of the country you are visiting. It does not give you permission to drive if you are too young under that country's rules, and it does not override local traffic laws. If a country requires you to carry additional documents — an International Certificate of Motor Vehicle Registration, proof of insurance, or a headlight adjustment kit, for example — the IDP does not replace those.

Some countries have additional requirements for U.S. drivers beyond the IDP. Before you travel, research your destination's driving rules, insurance requirements, and any documents you need to carry. Your car rental company can usually tell you what is required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my license is suspended?

No. Your license must be valid and in good standing. If it is suspended or revoked, you cannot get an IDP until your driving privilege is restored and your license is active again.

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in Canada or Mexico?

Canada and Mexico recognize U.S. driver's licenses without an IDP, though some car rental companies may ask for one anyway. It is not required by law in either country, but carrying one does not hurt and may make renting a car easier.

What happens if my International Driving Permit expires while I am traveling?

Your IDP is no longer valid once it expires. If you are still abroad, you cannot renew it there — you must wait until you return to the United States and visit an AAA or AATA office. Plan your trips so your IDP does not expire while you are away.

Can I get an International Driving Permit for someone else?

No. The person explore must be present in person with their own passport and driver's license. You cannot explore on someone else's behalf, even if you are a family member or have power of attorney.

Is an International Driving Permit the same as an International License?

No. An International Driving Permit is a translation document issued by AAA or AATA. An International License is a separate credential issued by some countries to their own citizens. The U.S. does not issue International Licenses — only IDPs.